Inclusify.uk

Although the term 'Guy' is typically used to refer to a man, the address 'Guys' is used as a way of describing a group of people, irrespective of gender. Whilst some consider the term as non-gender-specific, its etymology is masculine and may, unintentionally, disengage other genders. In French, a group of women is 'Elles', though if at least one man is present, it changes to 'Ils' which is also the term for a group of men.

Why it matters

Whilst a widely used term, especially when describing a group of men, this is an example where a male term is the default gender to describe something that includes other genders. Studies show this can disengage others in the group, especially children and young adults. Unless useful to specify gender, using gender neutral phrases help set a broader welcoming tone in the language that surrounds us.

Instead try saying: